DIY friendship bracelets are a timeless summer craft — simple to make, colorful, and perfect for trading with friends at concerts or parties.
I spent hours as a kid making bracelets, stocking up on thread and experimenting with patterns. Here I share three easy designs you can recreate: a braiding method, a beaded bracelet with tassels, and a wrapped bangle. All use bold colors and optional embellishments to personalize each piece. Let’s jump in.
Below you’ll find clear instructions for a classic braided friendship bracelet, a beaded version with handmade tassels, and a simple way to dress up plain bangles for a unique look.
Supplies Needed
Gather the following supplies depending on which bracelet you plan to make.
Beaded tassel bracelet:
Matte or neon beads
Craft thread (neon collections work great)
Needle
Scissors
Small piece of cardboard for tassels
Braided bracelet:
Embroidery thread in three contrasting colors
Lightweight chain (optional to add texture)
Scissors
Charms, cabochons, or small beads for embellishing
Jewelry glue for securing accents
Wrapped bangle:
Plain bangle bracelets
Embroidery thread in desired colors
Scissors
Cabochons or charms to decorate
Jewelry glue
Beaded Friendship Bracelet Tutorial
- Cut a length of thread equal to your wrist plus 4–5 inches for tying.
- Tie a knot about two inches from one end, thread on beads until they fit comfortably around your wrist, and knot the opposite end to secure them.
- To make tassels, cut a 2-inch-wide rectangle from scrap cardboard and wrap thread around it 15–20 times.
- Slide the wrapped thread off the cardboard and tie a small piece of thread around the center. Fold the looped bundle in half so the looped ends align at the bottom.
- Wrap a third small cord several times around the top portion of the folded tassel to form the head, and secure the end with a tiny dab of glue.
- Cut the looped ends to create the fringe, trim evenly, and tie or glue the finished tassels between beads where you like.
Braided Friendship Bracelet Tutorial
- Cut nine lengths of thread, each twice the length of your wrist: two strands of each of three colors, plus three lengths of lightweight chain if you want added texture.
- Gather and tie all nine strands together in a single knot, leaving about two inches at the top for tying later.
- Divide the materials into three sections, each made of one color plus one chain strand, and braid these three sections until the bracelet reaches the desired length.
- Tie a secure knot at the end, trim excess thread leaving two inches for tying, and finish with beads on the ends or glue a small cabochon to the braid for decoration.
DIY Bangle Bracelet
- Secure the bangle and begin wrapping embroidery thread tightly and evenly around it until fully covered.
- Finish the wrap by applying a small bead of jewelry glue to hold the final end, then trim any excess thread.
- Use another small drop of glue to attach cabochons or charms to the bangle, and allow the glue to set completely before wearing.
Photos by Jeff Mindell
Homemade friendship bracelets make thoughtful gifts for long-time friends or fun accessories for a nostalgic night in. Mix colors, add charms, and enjoy the process — these projects are great for craft nights or last-minute personalized presents. Have fun creating!
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